This Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two classic desserts. The creamy richness of the cheesecake meets the warmth and spice of a cinnamon roll, with swirls of cinnamon sugar baked right into the luscious filling. Every bite delivers a delightful balance of flavors, making it an irresistible treat for dessert lovers.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in something sweet, this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser. The cinnamon swirls create a stunning visual, while the cream cheese frosting on top adds a touch of indulgence. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings at home.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for cinnamon swirl)
- Cream cheese frosting (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Stir in the sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to make the cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and use a knife to swirl it through. Repeat with the remaining cheesecake batter and cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with cream cheese frosting if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
Kcal: 450 kcal per slice | Servings: 12 slices
List 10 other ways to call the same exact dish with different words:
- Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake
- Cinnamon Dream Cheesecake
- Cinnamon Roll Delight Cheesecake
- Spiced Roll Cheesecake
- Creamy Cinnamon Swirl Cake
- Cinnamon Cheesecake Fusion
- Cinnamon Roll-Inspired Cheesecake
- Cinnamon Cream Cheese Swirl Cake
- Cheesecake with Cinnamon Roll Twist
- Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Indulgence
History of Cinnamon Rolls and Cheesecake
Cinnamon rolls are believed to have originated in Sweden, where they are known as “kanelbullar.” Traditionally, they are served during fika, a Swedish coffee break. Cheesecake, on the other hand, dates back to ancient Greece and was served to athletes during the first Olympic games. Over time, both desserts have become global favorites, with regional variations and creative adaptations. Combining these two classics, Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake offers a modern twist, blending the best of both worlds into one mouthwatering dessert.
Why This Dessert is a Must-Try
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. The rich creaminess of cheesecake complements the warmth and spice of the cinnamon swirl, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. The blend of textures—smooth, creamy cheesecake filling and the slightly crispy graham cracker crust—combined with the fragrant cinnamon filling makes every bite heavenly. Whether you are a fan of cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, or both, this dessert will satisfy your cravings.
Perfect Occasions for Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
This dessert is ideal for a variety of settings:
- Holiday gatherings: It adds a festive touch to Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any family gathering.
- Birthday parties: A unique and delicious alternative to traditional birthday cakes.
- Brunch: Impress guests by serving Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake at your next brunch gathering. The cinnamon flavor makes it an excellent pairing with coffee.
- Potlucks and office parties: The combination of cheesecake and cinnamon roll is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it the star of any dessert table.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Don’t rush the chilling process: Let the cheesecake chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps it set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Avoid cracks: To prevent the cheesecake from cracking, bake it in a water bath and avoid overbaking. The center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven.
- Optional toppings: Cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take this dessert to the next level, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Store and Serve
- Storage: Keep your Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Serving: For the best texture and flavor, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for an added touch.
Nutritional Info
A typical slice of Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is around 450 kcal, making it a rich and indulgent dessert. While it’s not a low-calorie treat, it’s perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
Customization Ideas
- Make it gluten-free: Swap out the graham cracker crust for a gluten-free alternative using gluten-free cookies or graham crackers.
- Make it lighter: If you want a lighter version, substitute full-fat cream cheese with reduced-fat cream cheese and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Add nuts: For an extra crunch, you can add a layer of crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the cheesecake before baking.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that brings together the best of two beloved treats: the creamy, rich texture of cheesecake and the warm, spiced flavors of a classic cinnamon roll. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. With its delightful swirls of cinnamon and creamy layers, it’s a perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.
Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it also allows for customization to suit dietary preferences or add personal touches like cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of nuts. This recipe is easy to follow, and with a little patience during the baking and chilling process, you’ll be rewarded with a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee at brunch or serve it as a show-stopping dessert at your next gathering, Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a delicious fusion worth trying.